The article from the point of view of “conservative think tank” National Center for Policy Analysis, cites that same old study from the American Chemistry Council which found that reusable bags contain “dangerous levels of bacteria.” Of course, that bacteria is the same kind found on pretty much every surface and fabric, and it is killed with simple soap and water. No matter. Sadly, the threat of MRSA, no matter how distant, is enough to deter many from making the environmentally responsible choice.

In case the threat of dangerous microbes isn’t enough to deter your from packing your own bag, the study presents a new mystery danger: job loss!

That’s right.

Anecdotal evidence suggests that curbs on plastic bags has affected commerce in the cities where [bag bans] have been enacted, according to a column by NCPA senior fellow H. Sterling Burnett on Waste & Recycling news’ web site.

In the current economic conditions the use of plastic bags could save U.S. jobs, according to Burnett.

Of course, the article doesn’t get into how, exactly.

When you click through to the study the article was based on, the study author elaborates:

Jen is editor in chief of TriplePundit. She has an MBA in Sustainable Management from the Presidio Graduate School and lives in Oakland with her husband and baby. Hit her up at on twitter @jenboynton to discuss diapering strategies or sustainability reporting methodology.